HARTLEPOOL MATCH PREVIEW

20 September 2013

A look ahead to Saturday's game

The Opposition: Hartlepool United make the long journey to Bristol this weekend looking to pick up their first three points on the road. The Pools have won just once in the league this season, beating Accrington Stanley 2-1 at home last weekend.

At this early stage in the season, the visitors sit three places and two points behind Rovers in the league table, having picked up just five points so far this campaign.

Several Pools players will be back in contention for the game after recovering from knocks and niggles. Neil Austin (hamstring), Matty Dolan (ankle) and Andy Monkhouse (groin) could all feature.

John Ward’s Comments: “They have picked up their first win, but we now have to make things hard for them, we have found that one win doesn’t make your season, you have to keep it going.

“I am glad they got their first win out of the way, as they are not coming here looking for that.

“I have looked at the Hartlepool side and we will give them every due respect. But at the same time I have to spend a lot of time with my team saying we have to be better than we have been.”

Opposition View: Manager Colin Cooper told the Hartlepool Mail “John (Ward) knows what he’s doing and I know he’ll have his team prepared.

“We must be 100 per cent on our game, we can’t afford to even switch off 10 per cent. But I know we have the quality to get something from the match.

“I know we’ve got people who can create chances. I like us to get on the front foot but sometimes playing away from home that can be difficult.

“I know John will be trying to play on the fact we’ve had a long journey and he will look to start quickly to try to shake us.

“But I also know we are good enough to get on the front foot and play football and I know we are good enough to frustrate them as well.

“Hopefully we will get the chance to put an impression on the game and ensure we don’t lose.”

Last Meeting: Pools last visit to The Memorial Stadium came in January 2011, with the game ending in a 0-0 draw. Pools have failed to win in any of their last four trips to The Memorial Stadium – their last win against us at home came back in December 2006.

Team News: Ryan Brunt is set to miss Saturday’s game, but is expected to be back in contention for next weekend. The game also comes a bit too soon for Seanan Clucas, who is due to play in the Gloucester Cup match next week.

Tickets: Fans have until 5pm on Friday to get their Early Bird tickets for the game. Supporters can save £2 on normal match day prices by buying their tickets in advance. Tickets are still available from either of the clubs' two retail outlets - Pirate Leisure at the Memorial Stadium and the Supporters Club shop in Kingswood.

Live Commentary: Unable to make the trip to the Memorial Stadium tomorrow? Then you can follow all the action from 3pm as Bristol Rovers take on Hartlepool LIVE on Gas Player.

Betting: Rovers are currently 13/10 with Sky Bet to take all three points on Saturday. Remember, if you haven’t already got a Sky Bet account, you can get a completely free £10 when you join and Bristol Rovers will also get £10 when you make your first deposit. As well as that, Bristol Rovers will benefit as you bet throughout the season, so make sure you open your account via www.skybet.com/bristolrovers